Mr. Muid's Blog

The Luna Whisperer

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 17:39:00 +0000

"The wound is the place where the Light enters you" - Rumi

She often speak to the moon, sometimes whisper to it, while driving, while dreaming, after prayers and after reading a book. Hopeless romantic, constant craving for limitless affection, Abby, my dearest sister is one of the most imperfect soul I've known through all my life.

During our childhood, we would play at the playground with our bikes. I remember when we were in Geelong, Melbourne, I would help look for her jumper before heading off to school. Each time she took shower, she would squat in front of the bathroom door, wrapped in a towel and head off to the heater in our bedroom. The three of us walk to school from home, just like any other normal kid.

Our family moved a lot. From places to different schools due to my father's nature of work. We're brought up in such affectionate condition, as well as hardship in life. I've seen her go through all kind of stages, from bullying, harassment, being called names, being labeled, outcasted and many other kind of treatment, but through perseverance, she emerge as this hopeful individual who shares common vision like any of us, to be loved.

Abby seems in her prime stage in her life. She's blessed with friends who came to her life like never before. Completely different from what I saw a decade ago. I used to see her lack of confident to share her gifts in arts. She writes so well but she wasn't ready. But now, she does poetry slams and performance, even to a point her words are carved on a tile in Publika.

I told her to write a book. One day I want to see her publish a book where she could share her experience in life, her joy, her witty encounters, her sadness, her poetry and all the things she wanted to be, and how she work with people she had admire. Her words gives people strength.

33 is still young, at least we call 'kurang muda'. But today, she earn every hugs, every love she need, not just from us, but from everyone. Because hugging is healing, and when a person heals better, they have nothing to contain but joy and hope to inspire everyone.

Happy birthday Abby. Abang sayang kamu.

The Wandering Artist in the Graphene Age

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 23:33:00 +0000

I see the world today. Great changes. Stories unfold about our childhood dreams of flying cars and mega cities. We are indeed flying, but we are flying too much. We obliged to the new media age, the age of technology because during our childhood, we have mold visions of the future with advanced technology. But none thought us the progression should be from the mind and moral. Our modesty begins to fade while human perfecting their artificial intelligence. Indeed. Artificial. But little we know that we are completely turning backwards as if we're still in the Graphene-coated 'Iron Age'.

We created the race of tantrum. Where strong unsatisfying voices are being placed in the social media to ensure voices being heard because we've been trolled by attention-seekers, the planet of 'Look At Me'. We advocate too much yet actions are not implemented because this age is the age of strategic planning, where blue ocean strategy is compulsory, creating leaders who only longing to lead but none would want to do operational works because it's too low-level. It's like a non-executive tasks.

Business cards are being distributed by individuals running an own small medium enterprise company with two to five people with the title CEO. Because in today's society, obsession over a title is mandatory to them. But they outsource to third parties, again and again, and those people are being underpaid.

Everyone want to be a sole warrior, yet no one want to be a soldier. We are corrupting our modesty. We are too self-centered, too self-conscious, too insecure and too condescending. We are an angry soul living in the closet trying to contain our rampage because we're just too upset over little things and that little things actually means nothing.

We are depending too much on devices, people to grow. We can't self-initiate until we are told to do something right for us. What happen to us? Those who are aware will know, will take action, will make mistakes, learn from it and will shape a greater destiny for the greatest survival. If we don't do it today, how will we assure a promising future despite the economic and moral turbulence that is happening?

May the Fifth Be With You

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 May 2014 15:25:00 +0000

So this is definitely not about the celebration of Star Wars for fans but I got an interesting story to share. Since this is my ever blog post in 2014, I would expect to write something about me or my works. Not this time.

I just came back from a very, very late dinner in a Mamak restaurant nearby after I finished work in the office and went for few laps in the pool.

An interesting event occur while I was eating my delicious Mee Goreng Mamak. I sat near a table with full of youngsters using this similar bahasa pasar. From the tone, they seems to be a group of 'mat rempit' because the language they use are very inappropriate and utterly vulgar. Since they talk loud, I don't need to ear drop instead was distracted by their stories about 'awek' or the new term for cute girls, 'gegirl'. So they were talking about their admiration over those pretty ladies, an adorable Siamese cat came around their table and saw them feeding the cat. A guy (from the same table) went rushing to 7-Eleven just 2 mins away and came back to feed the cat with a Friskies food pack (perhaps this cost around RM2 or so). Another friend of him said, "Baik lah kau kasi makan kucing", then this guy (let's call him the Friskies guy) replied "Takkan aku nak bagi kucing ni makan tulang ayam ni, lagipun dia tak kerja, bukan ada duit pun". (Translation: "You're too kind to feed the cat", "I don't think it's nice that I feed the cat only with chicken bone. Anyway this cat is jobless and does not have any income")

I was in awe. It was very remarkable and eye-opening.

Immediately I vision this ray of light coming from the sky as if I got knocked in the head. This even change the whole perception of these group of boys. If they were those 'mat rempit' gangs, I have this interesting hypothesis that conclude to:

1. They have a good heart despite their 'criminal-like' activities
2. They mixed with the wrong crowd and only if they were put in a different shoe and influence, they could be a better person
3. The moral support for them exist, perhaps through the affection from family and loved ones
4. They were darn bored. If they were given the opportunity to have a better self-esteem, they could hit a great career ahead
5. They need a good father or brother-figure to guide them to a better path and enrich themselves with better education.

I hope in future to come, God give them a chance and 'rezeki' to make them be a better person in our society. Perhaps it's about time our culture foster young generation to be a better, motivated person that could sustain our culture's reputation in the most positive way.

InsyaAllah.

Young Malaysian Artist Exhibition & Behance + Creative Cloud

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 06:17:00 +0000

I like to invite you to visit my latest digital art masterpiece (the latest digital space painting series) called 'Jupiteraya' that are now currently exhibiting at Galeri Petronas, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur. This is not the first time Galeri Petronas have been the pinnacle to support electronic artists, digital artists, video artists like myself but it's been 3 times.

Quoted by Galeri Petronas: "who engage in a ‘self-referential‘ relationship with new technologies to discover the ‘self’ in making contemporary transformation determined by technological developments - new media". So far, I could only can spot four electronic artists who complement their work according to the theme.

Further information about our exhibition: http://www.galeripetronas.com.my/Pages/Exhibition.aspx?MenuId=2&ItemId=73

'Antara Callisto & Europa' (Jupiteraya Series), by Muid Latif.

The Jupiteraya Series

Using combined conventional media from acrylic & poster color on art paper, I orchastrate my work on digital canvas using the latest version of Adobe PhotoshopCC & Illustrator CC.
This took 28 weeks of R&D, production, improvement and revisit of my three works until I meet my satisfaction. Stereoscopic imaging gave the final touch for the viewers to enjoy my work using 3D anaglyph glass. More story of my work will be post on my behance portfolio and newspaper, New Straits Times soon.

To my e-art brothers and sisters, my close friend Syafiq Abdul Samat, Latif, and newfound fellow artists; Andrialis Abdul Rahman and Firdaus Herrow, I'm glad to share this exhibition with all of you. I hope this exhibition will uplift your spirit and encourage to harness your passion in continue the legacy of our father of Malaysian Digital Art, the late Ismail Zain. I may not know close enough about you guys but I am pleased and proud to be a part of your presence.

Throwback: Knowledge Development Centre (KDC) 2nd Anniversary with Adobe After Effects TECHTALK at Cyberjaya.

Was given the opportunity to represent Behance once again as the Malaysia ambassador to promote and showcase what Behance is all about to KRU Academy students and AEMY participants. Thanks to the awesome and cool inspiring guru, Hussin Khan for the invitation.

This time I talk about how creative professionals can empower themselves by showcasing their works through Behance.net portfolio. With Creative Cloud, Adobe users can now synchronize and upload their work directly from http://creative.adobe.com or upload their work-in-progress via Adobe Photoshop CC and Illustrator CC.

Photos are courtesy of Adobe After Effects Malaysia & MDeC. Thank you for those who attended.

Stay creative, keep on shining and stay awesome.

- Muid Latif

H.J.S

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:46:00 +0000

'Halus Jiwa Seniman' is probably the most alluring word to define H.J.S in Malay language but the fact that H.J.S mentioned above is the initial of my mentor and a person who's very close to me. Even though by location we are far separated, yet through the Internet, his ideology and teaching indirectly had harness my passion and talent. Hasnul Jamal Saidon. That's what H.J.S. stands for. metaphorically speaking, H.J.S translated through him are Humility, Jovial and Substantial.

Back in 2007, I was working on a very exciting national project Angkasawan Programme™ - Interactive Wayfinder (Interactive Kiosk) for MOSTI and National Science Centre. Due to this, I began to open up my curiosity about astronomy. Recently, I've been more engaged and indulging myself with digital space painting. I would read Astronomy books and Science magazines like a science geek, exploring about our outer space, quantum physics, dark matter, the universe as a whole and glazing the night sky while driving or swimming at the pool, wishing if I could ever see any shooting star (yeah right lah).

One thing for sure what I would relate Hasnul is that he is an exoplanet. In my own term to be precise, a truly remarkable Malaysian Exo-Artist. Why? For an e-artist, Hasnul had empowered a lot of people to be outstanding in their own way. His work evolved in multi-level and disciplinary, not forgetting his ability to sing while playing his guitar. I notice great artist have amazing art of spoken words. I thought it was even peaceful to watch him performed. Even if I was never his direct discipline, his wisdom and values have transpire through me, just like how I was inspired by our father of Digital Art, the late Ismail Zain. So those who's been or currently his student, you guys are so lucky and privilege to have someone like him.

Hasnul and me at USM, Mid-March 2013

When I gave 'Wacana Minda' talk in USM Penang on March this year, I felt so overwhelmed that my idol had given most sincere, frank, humble opening remark. I could still remember clearly how well and precisely he describes me as Malaysian third generation of Digital Artist, but when he mentioned I am the modern day Ismail Zain, I still felt unworthy to be at par with such title because Ismail Zain is a guru and he had done so much in the Malaysian art history, when I could even barely sustain myself outstandingly. I don't know, perhaps I still felt it's a long journey ahead and want to continue to seek and improve my knowledge. Anyhow, a recognition coming from Hasnul that day, in front of amazing cheerful of students, professors and academicians who attended my talk was indeed overwhelming and beautiful. I was blessed. It's was like a gift.

Throwback

It was in circa 1997 that I had discovered e-art movement in Malaysia while browsing the Internet, and from there on I begin to flourish my passion in digital art. Ergo, it makes me established as one of the most proactive local digital artist in Malaysia who had break record to even perform live with Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra to create digital artworks in 20 minutes in Dewan Filharmonik Petronas. I still feel overwhelmed to find out not just 5-8 thesis or paperworks in university thesis archive that the students had 'studied' about my works and me. It was more than I could ever imagine. The joy and humbleness just came down to comfort me.

Of course I can't be too vain about it but please, do not ever get me wrong. It's not bragging but acknowledging my own talent that I should be proud as I change the stereotype perception of how people see digital art. In fact, it was his legacy that I was carrying throughout my works. I am so grateful to God for giving me such talent to witness how I imperfectly evolve from being bullied at my school, harass or abuse by certain individual both mentally and emotionally by calling me stupid and ugly, monkey, big nose guy, faggot, useless and every form of negativity. I bring forth a cheerful attitude and decide NOT to be a victim of my past and be someone who could accept his own imperfection, harness and empower others through great values without taking arrogance into account. I always 'decline' any awards that I received in the past (I recall I don't put it in my current resume at all) because to me, it jeopardize my sense of humility because the more I 'win' something, I am open to be drift away from my good morale value and always fight myself not to misuse my achievements and talent to demoralize others. God, forbid me from being 'prima donna', a snob 'diva' just I because have tons of achievement. No, no no... I want to be a normal creative guy next door, to live a normal and most modest life as much as possible.

Citra Seni ASWARA Bersama Hasnul

Hasnul at Aswara

Today, I managed to clear my busy schedules and meeting to attend Hasnul's talk. I felt like a 10 year old boy visiting a science centre during his talk because I felt a free spirit reborn over and over and it makes me so inspired to continue to progress myself in arts.

One thing that I learn from him is about family values. Like photosynthesis, I felt the crucial need for anyone to work together harmoniously. To collaborate with each other, leave our hierarchy or indifferences aside, and focus on one thing - to revitalize our lives with great moral values without forgetting our roots of life.

So thank you Hasnul, thank you Mak and Abah (Mum and dad), my family, best friends and everyone who have been so patient to believe in my talent, encourage my passion and see my imperfection as a form of evolution.

Outro

I'm taking this opportunity to provide every of my readers a special gift, my free ebook called 'Mekarnya Cinta Kata-kata dan Puisi' (Blossoming Love for Words and Poetry). I hope this humble book will let you understand the struggle I've been through as a digital artist and a 'creative economist'.

Download here: http://moedlatif.com/mckkp/

To light and peace,

Muid Latif

Creative People To Watch in Malaysia for 2013 via Behance Network

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 06:58:00 +0000

Ladies and gentlemen, Behance Malaysia Ambassador present; 'Creative People to Watch in Malaysia for 2013 on Behance Network'.

The list provided here are randomly discovered through 'most viewed', 'most featured', 'most appreciated','most recent' or simply randomly discovered by clicks from Behance Malaysia Ambassador, Muid Latif. The numbers does not reflect ranking but a matter of reference, in case anyone ask which one is yours, instead of bullet point. Thanks!

......................................................................................................

The Behance portfolio feature compiled by Muid Latif, a renowned New Media Artist, Behance Official Ambassador™ of Malaysia, Official Adobe Influencer™ (Malaysia), Lead Project of Creative Commons Malaysia and Certified 'N.O.S.S 2012 & 2013 Creative Industry Expert' by MSC Malaysia.

Visit Muid's portfolio http://www.behance.net/muidlatif & www.moedlatif.com

......................................................................................................

Note: The portfolio orders that are featured in this blog are randomly discovered and it's on-going. If you're not on Behance, it's time to do so by registering your free Behance portfolio today! Talk to me via twitter if you like to have your Behance portfolio featured as I'd be happy to promote. Thanks!

Follow Muid on Twitter: www.twitter.com/muidlatif & Behance Malaysia Twitter: www.twitter.com/BehanceMalaysia

Let's Legally Download: The Best of Malaysian Music on iTunes Store

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 08 Dec 2012 16:15:00 +0000

If any of my friend would ask, who are the among Malaysian artist I currently listen to, besides going to local record store to purchase CD or buy from online? I have lots, since some of them are my friends who I had the privilege to work with or met:

Here are my recommended albums available from iTunes Store, and guys, show some love to them by supporting our local Music:

Sudirman - Terunggul > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/terunggul/id323523340
Note: The late (Arwahyarham), Sudirman is the one and only legendary to break through records with his outstanding showmanship. He is indeed the Malaysian version of Michael Jackson, too young to die, yet his music lives in each and every one of us. He's the definition of big brother of unity in Malaysia
Malaysian legendary Queen of Jazz, Sheila Majid
http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/sheila-majid/id42422788
Note: She is now, then and forever... a mega superstar, an ultimate graceful star in the Malaysian Music Industry. Never in my playlist I miss out any of her song especially the songs from 'Emosi', and the highly anticipated album produced by my fav, fav producer, Roslan Aziz, 'Ratu' especially 'Embun' with Nathan East on bass.
The legendary, Zainal Abidin - Terang... Sang (1995) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/terang...sang/id214981104
Alleycats - Koleksi Perdana 20 Hits > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/no.1-koleksi-perdana-20-hits/id539875377
Note: They are the most amazing legendary group ever, like the Earth, Wind and Fire.
M.Nasir - No. 1 Dulu dan Kini > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/no.1-dulu-dan-kini-m.nasir/id457336249
Note: M. Nasir is one of the most admirable, respectful talented Malaysian musician/producer of all time. Every music that he produces/produced for local recording artist will always turn best song or a hit.
Najwa (Mahiaddin) - Innocent Soul (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/innocent-soul/id542102156
Note: Her amazing soulful vocal reminds me of Faith Evans. She's international!
Poetic Ammo, the best Rap group in the late 90's, early 2000.
'The World Is Yours' is one of my fav (2001) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/the-world-is-yours/id324948618
'Monay, Monay' (Single) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/monay-monay-single/id42430381
'Everything Changes' Feat. Lady D (Single, 2004) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/everything-changes-feat.-lady/id323734039
Ferhad (Best Singles on iTunes) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/ferhad/id42430601
Note: Ferhad is energetic, creative and awesomely inspiring. Privileged to work with him on his website project (his first album 'Tubed').
3 Suara (2012) - Jacyln Victor, Ning Baizura, Shila Amzah > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/3-suara/id545207890
Anuar Zain (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/anuar-zain/id539501609
Note: He's the brother to the talented Malaysian Pop Diva, Ziana Zain. Anuar is a legendary male singer and enjoyed listening to his previous album produced by my fav Indonesian young producer/composer, Andi Rianto.
Ziana Zain - Best Of (1998) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/best-of-ziana-zain/id537603628
Note: Malaysian Queen of Pop, she's one of the best hardworking and best-selling female, and her humbleness and random jokes on stage made me enjoy her show.
Siti Nurhaliza - All Your Love (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/all-your-love/id466626765
Note: The only english album by Siti Nurhaliza which I thought it was good. The cover art was designed by a good friend of mine, Shazwan Taib ('Boy'). Nevertheless, Siti is a sweetheart, she is one of the most humblest person I met and she have such a big heart.
Ning Baizura > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/ning-baizura/id5522802
Note: She's one of person who I frequently chat via social media and worked before few years back with Pete Teo/Yasmin Ahmad 'Malaysian Artistes For Unity' project. Ning is one of the most influential, hardworking songstress female Malaysian artist to this date. She's legendary, and an amazing diva. You gotta' love her.
Nora - Hikmah EP (2012) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/hikmah-ep/id556472345
Note: I consider Nora as a big sister, she's a darling and she's inspirational. Her husband, Johan Nawawi is one of the most respected Malaysian producer I look up to and privileged to work with him before.
Innuendo - BrandNuendo (2001) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/brandnuendo/id282190246
Note: Malaysian only best R&B group, which reminds me of Jodeci.
Too Phat - Whutthadilly? (1999) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/whutthadilly/id39325985
Altimet - Syukur (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/syukur-single/id545585111
Note: One of my fav from Altimet with samples from Sudirman 'Nilai Cintamu', occasionally hang out with Altimet and the CIGARAGA fellas (Cigar group: Kruel, JSadiq, Zeffri, CityBash, Khalids, Rafai, YouTiub)
Joe Flizzow - President (2010) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/president/id545585627
Note: Who doesn't know about local-international; Too Phat who had been collaborating with Warren G, Talib Kweli and other renown international rappers.
Mizz Nina - Takeover (2012) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/takeover/id530186414
Note: Met her few times, she emerged and re-invented herself fantastically and she's a part of the notable Malaysian Rap group, Teh Tarik Crew.
Made Men (Compilation) by Kartel Records (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/made-men/id542102748
Note: The most sick production of Malaysian hip-hop music production, crystal-clear materials and beats. Highly recommended.
Dave Andrew > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/dave-andrew/id274599835
Note: Man, I'm a big fan of Dave Andrew's works especially 'Cahaya' from Under The Influence album. Experimental contemporary jazz and everything else, the man is a dynamite!
Ash Nair - Chameleon (2006) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/chameleon/id579358490
OAG > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/oag/id45574441
Note: The awesome, OAG. They are the most legendary alternative rock band ever in Malaysia. They are revolutionary!
Compilation: 'The Heart of Hymns' by (the notable) Aubrey Suwito,
Note: This album is top notch, flawless music production, the ONLY Gospel music album I recommend for Christian listeners > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/the-heart-of-hymns/id576978381
Damn Dirty Apes - The Apes of Wrath (2011) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/the-apes-of-wrath/id497490313
Dennis Lau, one of best and talented Malaysian violinist ever. http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/dennis-lau/id336207467
Imran Ajmain - Dikalung Kasihan (Single, 2012) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/dikalung-kasihan-single/id565644173
Note: Imran is an talented singer and a good friend of mine. He's highly creative and love his passion in arts. He's humble and the most attentive recording artist who interacts often with his fans on social media platform.
Zee Avi > http://itunes.apple.com/my/artist/zee-avi/id295071694
Note: Her vocals are flawless and proud to have her representing Malaysia in the international music industry.
Freedom - 'Bermulanya Di Sini (Single) > http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/mulanya-di-sini-single/id47347340
Note: The best (repeat, the BEST) oldschool harmonious Malaysian ballad.
Couldn't find Nabil Zamanhuri on iTunes except for his collaboration with DJ Fuzz. Nabil is an awesome choreographer, dancer and creative guy. http://itunes.apple.com/my/album/dreamin-feat.-nabil-zamanhuri/id671200647?i=671200913

The rest I could not find on iTunes store (Malaysia) are highly talented Yuna, Sister of Malaysian Jazz, Atilia Haron and Queen of R&B, Liza Aziz. Listen to 'Tak Rela' on YouTube. Also couldn't find Noryn Aziz on iTunes :(. Even my favorite neo-soul local jazz band, Bassment Syndicate is not on iTunes and looking forward to see their album in here soon. Check out their music: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7TLkZXDnPA

Now, enjoy online shopping, downloading and listening.

- Muid Latif

Designer's Survival Kit Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 09:41:00 +0000

Written by Muid Latif, Certified Malaysia's National Creative Expert and Ambassador to Behance Malaysia

According to Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia, Ministry of Human Resource, our employment rates had only decrease 0.1% percent compared to last year, 2011. As of 2012, our employment rates is 3.1%. However, we're not as critical compared to countries such as United States which is 8.9%, 7.2% from Philippines, 4.6% from Japan and highest so far is in Spain which is 21.7%, according to 2011 Unemployment Statistics from Eurostat.

Throughout my encounters during conducting job interviews for creative job applications, most likely local interns, post-graduates, and jobless graduates are struggling to get hired for full time employment due to:

Lack of Communication Skills
Lack of Basic Soft skill
Lack or no industrial experiences or internship background
Demand high salary expectation even during internship
Turn up late for job interviews
Incapable to meet datelines and manage their roles and responsibilities
Influenced by stereotype-minded parents who influenced their children on the way they see things with prejudice
Ignorant to any form of industrial awareness (for example, did not attend or support any free-based events from art and design exhibitions in local galleries, refuse to attend workshops due to fear of budget constrains, did not appear in any conferences, talks or seminars in order to gain knowledge, and et cetera)
Most important, obnoxiously stubborn and full of pride
Have a narrow minded and emotionally defensive for any critics or feedback on their work
Big potential talent equal to unwanted big prima-donna attitudes
'Character Suicidal' in their CV/Resume. You are intentionally inviting your future employers or interview to analyze and evaluate your character based on how you write your CV or Resume (format of writing resume is crucial). For example, redundant hobbies, fancy email addresses like 'babyrina_comel[at]yahoo.com' or 'penjejak-awan85[at]yahoo.com', inappropriate photo (profile) shots that doesn't look appealing or TOO obvious (Imagine, Bon Qui Qui, I'm not going to hire any 'out-of-the-hood-program'). I'm definitely not going to hire an employee or candidates that could potentially terrify my current or potential future clients and stake holders.

Their unwillingness to project a good mentality decreases and few major factor that contributes to jobless Malaysians are lack of self-dependent in knowledge development skills and expect to be spoon-feed by former or current lecturers or employers.

More disappointing, even I had encountered few under-graduates who express condescending attitude to project a good designers intelligence. Have absolutely zero marketing strategy to promote themselves. Even if we have an overall of talented creative individuals, what kills them with unemployment rates are because of these above factor. Their unwillingness to multi-task, unwillingness to become multidiscipline and always into their own comfort zone, expect to be treated like a superstar when their talent are not highly equally complement to their creative works.

In the past, I had hired and call many designers for job interviews and in general, they lack of understanding:

Employer's or client's nature of business
Unorganized portfolio packaging & marketing
No communication skills for jobs or internship applications
Ignorant to utilize online platform to establish and market their talent such as putting their creative works via online through great free based portfolio website such as Behance.net or have no Jobstreet.com account to begin with
Their CV or resume does not convince any employer or interviewer due to lack of interest to polish themselves gracefully in professional manner. Imagine, I have to go through a CV that does not provide Referrals, Soft skills, Qualification in both education and experience or achievement to impress us.
Unable to take direction or brief well through good understanding and misinterpret or assume things based on hypothesis or without solid research and development
Appearance in job interviews must also take into account. I came accross those who came for interviews wearing inappropriate t-shirt and sandals. We're not a disco club or a gig, nor we are not a modeling agency. (Jangan overdress or wear some death metal black shirt and wear boots)
Knowledge became an option to them and overshadowed by their defeatist attitude such as 'quarreling' or debate with job interviewers about their personal opinion and express dissatisfaction on the spot. Remember, this is not a forum, it's your job interview and key of impression is also being evaluated.
(For example, "Encik, maaf saya tak reti cakap English. Kita ni Melayu, boleh tak kita cakap bahasa Melayu' or they start to question 'why are most people in this company have only one race, sir?'). Attitude people! I don't welcome racial profiling. I hire TALENT equal to your capability and ability to perform and contribute to a company or agency. That's why candidates should learn the nature of our business or our practice before attending job interviews.

So in the end, they start fiercely blaming our government and private sector that does not support the industry but apparently, it's their unwillingness to showcase a good creative persona and attitude, no determination and lack of understanding the nature of future clients or employers are the source to their career suicide.

Both government and private sector offers grants, scholarships and opportunities to all of us. According to the Malaysia's Graduate Job Placement Statistics and Non Graduates Statistics in 2012, we offer 33,473 job placement and 105,535 job placement.

So it makes me wonder, why do we have such unbelievable condescending mentality and negative attitude to empower ourselves creatively to become a better, creative professionals?

Interested to read Part 1 of Designer's Survival Kit? Click here.

Notice: Kindly credit my name and my references for any of external publication or quote to your thesis, R&D, article in any online or offline media. Writer's point of view does not reflect current position in any company and it's based on past experiences and encounters. Thank you

How does one measure success?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:01:00 +0000

I came across a tweet by an American writer, Richard D. Walker (who had instantly became a good virtual friend). He tweeted: "Successful people solve more problems than they create. Unsuccessful people create more problems than they solve. Which one are you?"

It makes me curious. How does one define success? How does one measure success?

My interpretation of success is very up front. Being successful does not measure by a 'stereotype' high standards of high economical status but being emotionally and physically contented.

When one person is contented followed by great maturity through great leadership and wisdom, you are successful. Even if a children who can create a science project with good result without fully depend on their teachers or parents, they are most likely a successful person because they foresee vision of success. They are in control of their success because of their will and determination. In fact, what makes a person successful is about taking responsibility and accountability to produce great result.

For example, if a fishermen who can support and manages a family, have a loving wife and capable of bringing up his children with proper education, would he already become a successful person? Yes.

If we are single, able to support our parents or family financially, have a stable career, perform charity or 'zakat' (alms), free from mountains of financial debts, have less drama in our lives, moreover surrounded by people who constantly shower us affections and encouragements, would we achieve success? Indeed, we are successful.

Furthermore, I second to what Richard had mention about 'unsuccessful people create more problems than they solve'. If one fail to comprehend being successful with the right attitude, great wisdom and a good persona, would they become unsuccessful?

What happens if you have a big house, a great career yet discontented with no one at home, a wife nor children who aren't attentive to shower you affection, to listen to you when you feel down, thus leaving you in solitude and insecurity, do we define ourselves successful?

If one person, for example, have an obnoxious attitude, threatening and demoralizing others by making their lives difficult, would that create more tension, stress and add more problems than becoming a person who can tolerate to provide a solution, would he or she define themselves as a successful person?

So which one are we?

Richard D. Walker is the author of 'It's My Life! I Can Change If I Want To' and the book is available on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Its-Life-Can-Change-Want/dp/0578074214/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t and follow his twitter at http://twitter.com/WalkerRichard

1433: Responsibilities and Self-reflection

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 10:12:00 +0000

When I attended my Idulfitri prayers and listening to the Khutba (sermon), I remember the khatib (imam) told us about charity (alms) or what the Muslim called ‘Zakat’. He said “there’s no point of performing our alms if we aren’t able to pray”, and learn the true meaning of being contented and peaceful at the right state of mind. We often think that we only perform zakat only during Idulfitri. Many years ago, I was enlightened by a dear friend who I see her as a soul sister who told me that zakat has many forms. So, I start performing my zakat regularly even in my businesses, I put 5-10% and give it back to the poor. I used to put RM1 Ringgit into the donation box but later few years I start to put more without being calculative about it.

But then this very 1^st Syawal of 1433, it hit my head again to understand the meaning behind helping others. Immediately I start to question myself, why did I help strangers yet I barely pay attention to my own relatives who lost their husband or wife or children. Do they have enough to survive? So I immediately go and talk to them, sending my doa and prayers, removing my own bitterness and sadness aside and pay attention to them. I tried to listen to them and try to be there even if it’s just for few minutes. I felt closer. Even Yong Zetty, my cousin called me and sent my encouraging greetings to keep me motivated. She was very helpful. That's all I need.

Being Grateful & Togetherness

While praising our belief, I see many ‘religious’ individual peculiarly rant their anger, their temper-tantrum and whine over something so small to some point take other people’s self-esteem away by demoralizing, harassing, condemning and blindly judge everyone around them. They forget to compare to those who are more unfortunate. It’s no point if you check into foursquare in churches, temples and mosques but you swear others. It doesn’t reflect you’re better than those who don’t.

An insightful illustration by the talented Ila Fox http://ilafox.carbonmade.com

I am a strong believer in love and affection, even if deep inside I’m still ‘inattentive’ to relationship; I never neglected my relationship with God, my family relatives and my friends around me despite how imperfect I am. I am so grateful that they are the source of my strength and I will always pray for their well being and prosperity.

When it comes to togetherness, I never wanted to feel like an outcast. Usually I initiate and take a step to bring people together if I don’t receive one. In the family, I will always be the goofy one tried to make a fool out of myself to break tension and stress among my siblings. If they had a quarrel, I will be there to break out any argument or fight. At least.

I always believe that we should be able to migrate to become wiser and mature, not childish when we grow old who’s easily offended and insecure of small things in life. Having said, it’s within our very nature to crave for acceptance. To be accept by family members, to be accept by our friends, to be accepted by our lovers and everyone around us. We tried to hard so that others would acknowledge us, yet when we don't get it, we become demoralize by our very own actions. So, what's the point of seeking for one's acceptance if you aren't able to accept yourself first? Our biggest enemy has always been greed. When you’re not satisfied and seek for more. More attention, more wealth. That’s when we became mentally and emotionally unstable because we can never satisfied. I advise others to get over our gluttony. I encourage people not to live a life in hatred and vengeance. If you're unable to clear your mind and seek serenity at a certain age, you will constantly fall and fail miserably.

Expectations

So remember, when you do good things in life, never ever expect you’ll be rewarded good things in return. Bring yourself closer to humility and seek serenity. Don’t victimize yourself by saying you have bad karma if luck is not by your side. God chose us to be stronger so that’s why we are given many obstacles so that we will be able to endure it and understand the path we had chosen. And lastly, forgive sincerely and forget. Don't put vengeance in you because it will lead you to a become a darker person. Find a closure, move on to a better, beautiful path of life, take control of your life and take a glimpse back to reflect yourself so that who you are yesterday, made you become a better person today and tomorrow. InsyaAllah.

_
In life, we need to achieve a good balance. Doesn't mean being good, we are not open to doing bad things. Always make room for mistakes so that you learn. Life is always about learning. There's no such logic by claiming yourself with 'Been there, done that' but you're not humble enough to empty back your glass over and over again. That's why we are born imperfect. Because none of us are truly imperfect.
Accept it, embrace it and inspire from it.

What is wrong with me? Karma perhaps?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 04:55:00 +0000

There is a saying about 'karma' when we do good things in life, you’ll be rewarded a good result in return. But being realistic, it's never easy to keep a good balance in life because we are born do make mistakes so we can learn something and be better. An eraser wasn't created for no reason.

We're rapidly 'showered' with people's view, opinion and rules that "you can't do this”, "this is wrong" and etcetera. It has become so untenable where others put too much high expectation from us that we are required or demanded to be so perfect, that once "you don't know what it's like to be in my shoes" to "I know what it’s like to be in your shoes so I'm stepping on your shoes so you'll be perfect”.

We're constantly surrounded by judgmental people who crave to penalize us due to our weaknesses. In fact, it became so rigid that people don't accept imperfection. I remember a saying, "No one remembers how many goals the goalkeeper saved, they will always remember the one he missed". True, because people intend to focus on other’s mistakes instead of strenghtening the good side of a person to be better.

Positive energy is even harder to achieve when one person close to you start being honest in the most brutal way without realizing, they are 'stealing' our faith in bringing good values and kindness. Paul Arden once said "The Perosn Who Doesn't Make Mistakes Is Unlikely To Make Anyhing"

Since when we are demanded or required to be pretentiously perfect to them but not to satisfy ourselves with our imperfection? Will there be no eraser in future? I wonder.

Footnote & Reference:

Karma defines as 'Destiny or fate, following as effect from cause. (in Hinduism and Buddhism)'

Paul Arden “It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be” published by Phaidon available on Amazon.com

Adobe Photoshop CS6 Extended Review

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 11:19:00 +0000

by Muid Latif, Official Adobe Influencer (Malaysia)

Adobe has progressively paying attention to their innovation in their applications. Recently, Adobe just released the state-of-the-art Creative Suite 6 and Creative Cloud, another flexibility offers to users to work seamlessly at anytime and anywhere. It's a creative revolution for all of us creative practitioners.

Before I proceed to review two of their coolest features, I would like to say a big thanks to both Adobe South East Asia (SEA) and Text100 Malaysia for providing us, Adobe Influencers the opportunity to explore and pilot this amazing creative product.

Just to share, during the official web telecast of Adobe CS6 launch on 24th of April, besides Adobe Design Achievements Awards that runs annually, Adobe announced a new scholarship award offers to higher learning institution. This definitely embark another great support for our creative industry to expand further in creative content development.

Rockin' the new feature of Photoshop CS6: Adaptive Wide Angle

As a digital artist, I was eager to find out if this new feature only applies to photographs, and to my surprise, it works almost in any interface according to our justification. I used my watercolor to straighten it's interface to make it more symmetrical, and I'm overwhelmed how efficient this feature had helped me to work more faster.

Image: I had import my own water color artwork. Notice the guide line, it's not straighten.

Image: Next, I open up 'Adaptive Wide Angle' tool from my FILTER Tool

Image: From here on, it will launch to a pop-up window where user can adjust either automatically, or using manually in perspective, fish eye lens and etcetera.

Image: This is the result after the adjustment using the awesome Adaptive Wide Angle tool. It's so fast and easy, like stealing candy from a baby (kiddin'). No serious, I would.

Hello, you 3D!

It get's better with fluid 3D text composition within Photoshop CS6 Extended. In the past, I usually do 3D text in Adobe Illustrator, or in XARA 3D (Windows), but now Photoshop CS6 makes any creative creation more prominent. Honestly, I was blown away by how light this feature runs on my Macbook without worrying about my hardware performance. It made me in tears (I know, so much drama....)

So, what are you waiting for? Download a trial today, and upgrade to Adobe CS6 to experience another level of infinity in creativity!

Thank you for reading, and have a blast working on your new artworks or design using Adobe CS6. Don't forget to tweet or mention to me via twitter or my facebook page to share your work in progress (WIP) or creations.

BIG LOVE!

Contact local official Adobe reseller:

Mr. Zuhairi

Progressive Sdn. Bhd.

http://www.progressive.com.my

hairi[at]progressive.com.my

9th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:23:00 +0000

After two years of 'bertapa', or has it not been re-hibernating? The 9th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards (BCAA) came back with a BIG BANG! Kapoww! (forgive me, what I meant there wasn't no tear gas thrown at us, obviously). Set in 1920's glamourous-themed night, the roaring '20's definitely something to roar about.

I witness one of the most out of the box, an extraordinary creative and innovative award show ever to date. It was truly unexpected and one of the kind. What can you say if you have someone brilliantly hardworking and dearly that I known of, Ida Nerina and Ngai Yuen, their team had made all things possible, smoothly. Even spotted Pat Ibrahim as a referee in the boxer ring, my dance guru who choreographed the entertaining dance performances. Let's not forget the ever miss fabulously Shelah! roaring the crowd as the emcee of the night accompanied by magnificent music conducted by the ever talented and notable, Nish Tham. And who can forget Jo Kukathas as Yang Berhormat (YB) paired with the ever lovely Carmen Soo? Swell! Jo is definitely a national treasure as what describe by our friend Pete Teo. While everyone reveal who's the winner in their upcoming articles and blogs, I kept my eyes on 9BCAA overall creative experience, and to know one of the designers behind BOH Cameronian Arts Awards who designed the programme book is none other than Fazrul Reza (Spotted on Behance Network) and the creative studio that made those stunning visual are the super creative people of Bright Lights At Midnight (BLAM) who's been helping out with BCAA visual branding in the past.

What captured me was more than a night of celebration, it was an important night of how our arts industry is moving forward with the support from each and everyone, regardless if you're indirectly involved or not. I would agree on what Ngai Yuen said in The Star newspaper a week before the night of the show, "It spurs the growth of the industry and something as good as this should never be stopped". Indeed, we should never uphold neither arts or creative condescendingly in any way because art allows people to nurture and grow progressively. It allows each and every one of us to spearhead the joy of visualize through writing, crafting motions and emotion that inspire people and contribute to our local creative economic growth.

Ayam Fared, who won the best director in a theatre for 'Short Eyes' said something very remarkable that night. Couldn't catch his exact quote but sounded like, "Best gratitude comes with an award but best appreciation comes from the heart". Congratulations to all nominated and those who won. [Proceed to list of winners here]

I leave it up to my sister, Abby Latif and other dear writers to reveal their great experience on the night of the 9th BOH Cameronian Arts Awards dated 29th April 2012.

It was great catching up with all of my friends from the arts industry. Kakiseni, thank you for paying the tribute to my idol, the late Datuk Syed Ahmad Jamal. Couldn't be more happier. Perhaps, the 10th Boh Cameronian Arts Awards can introduce new category, 'The Visual Art Awards' for those who had been excellently working on visual promotion in the art/theater scene, who knows ;-)

Rest well, and I'm very proud of you all.

Muid Latif, Abby Latif & Rizal Effendie

The Spacemen Interview: Muid Latif

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:44:00 +0000

The lovely people of The Spacemen had recently interviewed me for their design portal. This will be my ever exclusive interview which features my knowledge sharing and milestone as a graphic artist.

Feel free to checkout this interview [here] or click the photo above, shot by Joshua Clay. Thank you to the Spacemen for your love, support and appreciation.

Hope you like it. Enjoy!

A Weekend To Remember

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

I remembered the last big birthday gathering I had was when I turned 27 at Galeriiizu at Wisma UOA and followed by a surprise celebration on my 29th birthday at Lazat Cooking House in a housing area in Petaling Jaya after I prepared my home-made dinner, Mushroom Enoki Bean Sprout called the 'Enoki Nusantara Samba'. Ever since that, I never plan on celebrating anything big, just a small number of close friends and usually with my family.

Me and my dearest friend Prakash Daniel

Best of friends from left: Adi, my sis' Abby Latif, Prakash Daniel, Salmi Omar, me, Azzad & Haslina Ghazali.

On Friday, 24th February which fall under my 33th Birthday, I sent an impromptu invitation to my close friends and colleague to attend my small birthday gathering at The Bee PUBLIKA and we had a great time with presents from Prakash, Azhar, Haslina & Salmi.

Behance Malaysia 2nd Group Exhibition / 6th Behance Malaysia Meetup

26th February was our official date of Behance Malaysia 2nd Group Exhibition 'finale' at Galeri Shah Alam. I was overwhelmed by the turnout was more than I expected, and as usual, great catching up session with all of them including walk-in guests to our exhibition. I also had a chat with Nikki, my former Editor from Art Malaysia magazine mentioned that our Behance exhibition will be featured in the magazine soon. Hoorey!

Since last week, if you (Malaysians) notice, our weather was constantly cloudy in the afternoon so as I would predict a heavy rain in the late afternoon. Right after the Behance Meetup in the gallery, I announce to all member's that I'm going to treat them for a lunch at fast food restaurant, KFC to celebrate our exhibition's closing and enjoying a great gathering session.

We walk on the sideways from the gallery to KFC of Wisma PKNS Shah Alam. Mind you it was raining, and everyone at least got wet. I was soaking wet because I want to make sure all behance members who walk with me arrive to KFC entrance safely despite the heavy rain.

So after I saw everyone sit down on the table, I know that I felt relief as they all have their seats and I went out to the nearest ATM machine to take out some money because I want to buy them lunch. Then out of the blue there is this one adorable kid came out of nowhere and start pressing the ATM machine button while I was entering my menu selection. Dear Lord, kids these days are so rascal! haha.

Then I went back inside KFC, called my sister Abby, Prakash Daniel and my dear friend, Iskandar Ibrahim to accompany me to the counter to place the order because I lost count of how many people were there at the table, and I was friggin cold due to wet from the rain we were caught earlier.

Now, little that I know it was more than just a gathering and lunch treat. Without my knowledge, the Behance members (probably headed by Zid or Zam Nayan, or Debbie or Haslina Ghazali, or Prakash (I actually have no idea!) who had actually carefully, planned a SURPRISE BIRTHDAY for me, which I would never in million years thought of. And of course I wouldn't have any thoughts of it because I was too focus on my concern about the logistic of the crowd to the gallery, how we going to pack all of our artwork back later, how to send the members back to town, and what not. I got my mind focus elsewhere.

It was when I was about to reach to their table, and there you go, a delicious cheese cake appeared with a Behance Logo spelled 'Bé' Happy Birthday Muid. I swear at that point of time, honestly, I was so stunned and surprised and it's definitely overwhelming for me. Come on lah, who wouldn't thought, kan?

They just made my day today. Even when Haslina passed the birthday card, I almost shred to tears because I always have this paranoia of being in-denial of friends getting distance from me due to my moody and emotional character, because I do remember I lost few best friends because they gave up on me because especially few years back when my career wasn't doing so good, and I had a tumor (which now recovered thankfully!). But you know, here they are, even as I grow old, I am surrounded by people who showered me with love and hope. Everyone was there, all the people who I had known for years, who was once a stranger became my friends, and from friends who became a part of my family.

It was overwhelming, magical and truly a bless. It's not just Behance that I saw, it was a force of support, from people who believe in themselves and people who appreciate the things we do, despite if its individual or teamwork, we not only build a community, we build a family. It's enough for me to achieve something, and it's a gift from them, and I love them so much and I want to thank each and everyone who had been there for me, for the better or worst of me.

God bless all of you. Forevermore.

Designer Workout Plan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:02:00 +0000

By Muid Latif

SLEEP EARLY AS POSSIBLE. Nothing beat stress from sleeping. A good sleep gives you a good charge the next day. If you have problem sleeping such as insomnia, drink chamomile tea or just relax your mind by resting on the bed. Don't worry what to do the next day, just get a good sleep!
EAT HEALTHILY. Have a good diet; eat more vegetables, eat fruits, eat less fat food and drink lots, and lots of water. Avoid taking too much raw food as it will welcome you to unwanted sickness such as diarrhea. And always eat on time and least one hour and a half before you go to sleep.
GET INTO THE MOOD. Find things that you like to do best and work on it, creatively. Arrange your workspace with colorful pin-ups, postcards and quotes. Music is one of the best influences to help you while working on your creative production, or simply from driving to work or a long journey back home. Don't text or tweet while driving. If you’re depressed, take a deep breath, vanquish all those negativity and refresh yourself. It’s no use holding back your negative thoughts anger and grudges.
DO A LOT OF SKETCHES. Change ideas into visual mind maps. Always bring your sketchbook or moleskin. Draw whatever you have in your mind and what you feel. But don't plagiarize other people's work and claim it yours, commercially. Be graceful, truthful and realistic.
EXERCISE REGULARLY. For me, running really helps. Always stretch yourself (fingers, arms, neck, back, etc) for 5-10 minute after finish doing your assignment at your workstation. Go to the gym or do yoga or a swim, keep your physical and heart healthy.
READ MORE. Read more design books and creative articles that can increase your understanding in developing creative ideas. When you read, you have solid and good research or subject matter to begin with. Paul Arden is a good start! Even better if you can get a copy of 'Making Ideas Happen' by Scott Belsky. There are great magazines such as Computer Arts, GOOD magazine, iDN, Monocle, Wallpaper, CUTOUT magazine and others.
BE FINANCIALLY STABLE. Cut the credit cards, eliminate the debts and spend minimal on entertainment & lifestyle. Avoid delaying any bills. Forget spending recklessly on things such as buying designer's toys, sneakers and outfits. Put 20-40% out of your salary to your savings account. Set a long-term financial plan wisely with your budget in a spreadsheet so you can track on all your expense in past, present and future. Remember, happy people usually have enough financial support in their account. If you’re about to run out of saving, work for more!
THE GOOD SON/DAUGHTER ATTITUDE. Bring your parents or family for an outing to express your appreciation for what they have done to you in the past. Getting yourself closer to your loved ones makes you become more than just a good being, it shape yourself a better person with accountability and responsibility. If you’re far away, call them to say hi. If you had trouble in the past communicating with your parents, this is the time you make up to them. Don't expect anything in return, what matters is that you remember them.
HANG OUT WITH GOOD FRIENDS. Choosing a right friend will make you learn a lot of things about yourself, even to identify your weakness or your great potential from their view. Accept criticism to make you become a better person. Like Paul Arden said, 'Do Not Seek Praise, Seek Criticism'. ;-)
SMILE. Don’t fake it or don’t smile in a weird freaky way but a simple smile. Smile makes you feel positive and it will bring others to be positive too. People who have obnoxious most likely to be a negative person will end loosing friends and imprint bad impression. Smile makes you happy, and happy makes you a contented person.
TRAVEL. Take a vacation and go to interesting places that doesn't reflect your daily routine or the same environment. Switch off your mobile, don’t check your emails. Take a nature walk, snorkeling or spa. Pamper yourself. It helps a lot.
DO CHARITY. Donate your old clothes to the donation drop-in box or visit the youth community centre or old folks home. Put 5-10% of your business profit and contribute to the poor or NGO's. Do good things in life. Don't be calculative when you donate. Don't put a penny or a dollar. Put more, pay it forward. It brings your a better person.
SEEK FORGIVENESS. Always be considerate to yourself and others. Drop that designer-diva attitude. Bring compassion to your life and your career. Be professional. Make people admire you and your charisma; don't force people to respect you by being fierce. Respect is earned and always be thankful for what you got.
READ THE NEWS! Keep yourself updated with the surroundings. Read New York Times, Good Magazine or even design portals like Behance Network, Drawn, Computer Arts Blog or FWA to get you inspired. It's not necessarily to hook yourself up the entire day with Facebook or Twitter as it could sometimes demotivate you, especially with negative expression from obnoxious and temper-tantrum individuals that would influence and distract you.
LIVE TO LEARN. Life is always about learning new things and making mistakes. Do lots of trials and errors to strengthen your work. Always expose yourself to new knowledge and design techniques, styles and what not. Develop your own unique trademark or brand that people can identify your creative work. Always think of quality over quantity. Always think long term goals to your creative productions. Most of all, accept advices and criticism. Do portfolios review among your peers or friends from the industry to see how you can improve the way you produce your creative work. Be multi-discipline.

Muid Latif is a Creative Practitioner based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He is also an ambassador to Behance Malaysia, writer for Art Malaysia and CUTOUT magazine, also the founder of art collective group, Digital Malaya Project. Visit www.muidlatif.co to learn more about his work.

Progressive Two "Ooh!" Double One

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 10:45:00 +0000

Can't express how contented i've been throughout this year. It starts with so many obstacle and ends with well wishes, support and encouragement from family and friends, i was able to strengthen myself to be much better than i used to be. 2011 had embark another progressive career and life milestone for me, including better position in my financial management.

A lot of unexpected encounters and it has been a privilege to the Lord Al-Mighty had shown and given me the path.

I'm not going to going to explain further in details but if some of you followed my twitter post and facebook updates, i am so blessed to have such an amazing life, after my years of fall and struggles. I only can say one thing, alhamdulillah (grateful).

I'm not going to put any expectation throughout 2012 but what i can promise you that there will be more exciting and refreshing new creative work line up, including my first ever solo exhibition.

Talking about career milestone during my presentation at TEDxMMU. Photo courtesy of TEDxMMU

Lunch break after I had presented my talk. Photo courtesy of TEDxMMU

Meantime, feel free to visit my photo album of my recent trip to Tanah Aina, Raub, Pahang, http://on.fb.me/tiJ8aT and Bali, Indonesia. http://on.fb.me/vHLGhV

Thank you to everyone, and have a joyful, prosperous new year with more positive energy, affections and smile!

_

Does Rebranding of a brand really necessary?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:15:00 +0000

I had a discussion with my fellow Digital Malaya collective; Abby, (my sister) and Faiz Akhbar after finish setting up our Behance Malaysia 1st group exhibition for Kuala Lumpur Design Week 2011. We're quite fascinated with the recent Maybank new corporate rebranding. People are so excited with the new change. I actually admire the new look especially the typeface use. It looks so 'comel'.

But what they fail to see above this rebranding are the long-term damages that would effect the entire institution. Imagine, they would appoint an agency and spend about half-a-million account to restructure and rebrand. Yes, hoorey to the agency but will that be all? what would happen next after the rebrand?

Maybank, founded in 1960 with revenue of RM12.87 billion in 2010, now, have to spend more money to update their branch's signage, and we're not talking just in Malaysia but the entire South East Asia, New York, London, Uzbekistan, Bahrain, Hong Kong and other parts of the world. They also need to replace their existing collaterals and merchandise (imagine bag packs, plush toy, coin box, umbrella, uniforms, t-shirts, etcetera have to reproduce with the new logo), change their stationary (letterhead, etc) and later to re-produce Maybank staff's access pass (tag) to more than 40,000 Maybank staff. To add, they need to spend more money to update the system with the new logo from the intranet system to online websites, mobile apps (iPhone/iPod/iPad) that also includes almost 3,000 (less or more) automated teller machines around the country. Not to mention, their subsidiaries and associates have to also update themselves from business cards, to brochures, magazines, websites and others. Now to get things done they would have to outsource or open tender and hire more agencies to execute those changes and to strategize in many years to come, which will lead to more waste of money down the drain. Can all of this be done in a year? Absolutely not.

The loss is not only time but above all, the capitol that can be more greater to be utilize to support and contribute to the industry. I felt that they should release more grants to local entrepreneur so that they can progress and re-invest, push more awareness in outreach programs, educate the kids about savings and smart spending, and to support the community as a whole to double the progress of our country's economy. And at the crucial time where we face global economic turmoil, is this what we want to inspire and encourage others to adapt the the concept of 'spent wisely'?

I will let you decide what's best ;)

Perhaps Maybank staff would now get lower bonus by year-end? God knows.... because usually with a better reward (gratitude) to their staff, it will motivate them to work better with more efficiency....

_

Janakan Kreativiti Anda Dengan Adobe Creative Suite 5.5

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 31 May 2011 09:39:00 +0000

Pelancaran perisian versi terbaru Adobe Creative Suite 5.5 baru-baru ni sekali lagi memberikan kuasa maksima dalam membangunan kandungan Interaktif untuk media baru terutama ekslusif buat pengguna peranti tablet dan telefon mudah alih seperti iPad, Blackberry Playbook, Android dan juga yang lain.

Sebagai seorang peserta program ‘Pengaruh Adobe”, saya dipilih untuk menyentuh beberapa fungsi terbaru di dalam perisian Adobe Creative Suite 5.5 terutamanya InDesign 5.5 dan Flash Catalyst 5,5 yang memberi kreativiti tanpa terhad dengan penggunaan tool yg berfungsi utk mempermudahkan produksi rekaan terutamanya bagi industri penerbitan majalah digital dan buku elektronik terutama bagi pengguna peranti tablet seperti iPad, Playbook, Samsung Galaxy Tab, dan lain lain.

Sebagai pembina kandungan interaktif, kualiti & efisiensi yang menggunakan perisian seperti Adobe InDesign 5.5. berlipat ganda dalam membina portfolio untuk iPad yang ternyata tidak mustahil. Ia menjadikan produk yang kita ingin sampaikan memberikan impak yang positif dan berkesan. InDesign yang dahulunya menerhadkan penggunaan terbitan secara digital, kini, ia memudahkan pengguna untuk menerbitkan majalah digital dan buku digital yang boleh dipasarkan di merata dunia.

Antara fungsi-fungsi yang menarik minat saya adalah seseorang pengguna tidak perlu mempunyai latarbelakang pengaturcaraan komputer seperti ActionScript, HTML, XML dan lain-lain untuk membuat majalah berbentuk digital, ini semua tidak mustahil dengan perisian Adobe Flash Catalyst CS5.5.

Apa itu Flash Catalyst? Ia adalah sebuah perisian rekaan interaksi hebat yang memberikan anda transformasi kandungan kreatif dari Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator dan Firework menjadi sebuah projek interaktif yang begitu canggih, konsistan dan berkesan.

Flash Catalyst juga berintergrasi dengan satu lagi aplikasi iaitu Flash Builder 4.5 yang memberi ruang bagi pembina kandungan mobil untuk mencipta aplikasi-aplikasi mobil Flex atau ActionScript® yang boleh memberikan lebih kreativiti contohnya aplikasi yang dapat melakar sesuatu lukisan secara digital dengan sentuhan jari pada skrin tablet yang dapat menghasilkan sesuatu karya seni atau rekaan tanpa mengotorkan tangan dengan alatan-alatan seperti cat minyak, cat air, berus dan lain-lain.

Kini, bukan saja kita dapat melihat sekadar kandungan pasif dalam sesebuah majalah digital atau buku elektronik malah berpeluang menghayati sesuatu kandungan dengan paparan gambar paranoma yang boleh dialih diserata layout majalah (pan & zoom), memperbesarkan sesuatu imej, menonton video secara langsung dari peranti tablet dan juga memainkan fail berbentuk animasi.

Bukankah begitu mudah untuk kita membina sesuatu kandungan interaktif yang dapat meluaskan kreativiti kita? Inilah masanya untuk anda menerokai keistimewaan yang dipaparkan dalam versi terbaru Adobe Creative Suite 5.5!

Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila layari laman web Adobe dan muat turun demo versi terbaru CS 5.5

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Creativity with PencilBrush

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 08 May 2011 09:05:00 +0000

The latest groundbreaking trend for illustrators and artistes is the PencilBrush, a hi-end yet user-friendly and innovative pencil that works like a brush, just the way you want it.

Bigbrosworkshop had invited me to attend an 'Introduction to PencilBrush' workshop curated by the creator himself, Alex Tarusha. Alex had demonstrated us the fastest tricks and tips to draw portraiture or figure using Pencil Brush and it took me just 3 minutes to produce something that I would normally achieve in 30 mins or so. Among top Malaysian illustrator such as Michael Chuah (Gilamon), KidChan (The Illustrator), 100Tentacles, ActionTintoy, Kenji @ BlackFriday, UrbanCreatures, Lisa Lee, Najib a.k.a Artech, Kenzy, MAWS along others.

We had such an enlightening experience and the outcome of using Pencilbrush is truly unexpected and different from our usual stroke that most of us had achieved using permanent marker.

"A handheld tool that is as simple as charcoal, gives you the precision of a mechanical pencil and the sketchy feel of a normal pencil. In short, a smart tool that offers large area coverage and a sharp tip for details that at the same time can serve as a dynamic liner. All this in one single tool with just one tip!" - Alex.

PencilBrush gives a different, extended volume of stroke, 3-4 times faster from a single pencil could achieve. It's a great exercise and it provide you a greater consciousness of how you control your tool in producing different outcome from different movement and control.

PencilBrush, (RM 89.90 Retail Price) is available at selected art store and stationary shop like Art Friend, The Gardens Midvalley & Venus Art & Stationery, No. 90, Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur and Cziplee in Bangsar. I'll update you more location of how you can own this fascinating tool to create wonderful artworks. You can also contact Bigbrosworkshop via email to purchase your order: info[at]bigbrosworkshop.com or visit http://www.bigbrosworkshop.com to place your order.

Meantime, checkout the video tutorials available at Pencilbrush.com.

Video Intro:

Photos from the workshop:

From left: Tintoy, Chunwoei & wife, Helen, Muid (me), Alex Tarusha, Euseng, Kenji, Shy (from JB), Suki, Michael Chuah (sitting) & Lisa Lee (Liselle).

Photoshop: Working With Patterns

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 06:10:00 +0000

User level: Intermediate
Application required: Adobe Photoshop (CS3 above)

This is a simple screen-shot tutorial on how to create interesting patterns for any creative work including book covers, cover art, digital art and so on. Youtube offers several tutorial on how to use the Photoshop tools, you can search for the tutorials there I hope you guys enjoy and produce an interesting outcome. ;-)

Let's begin!

01. Open a blank canvas; use Pen Tool to draw your desired shape.

02. Duplicate the floral and change to a different color.

and go to FILTER>LIQUIFY.

Select the desired amount of the brush and push the tip of the flower to create more curve.

03. Then you enhance by adding gradient to the flower's interface

You can enable your grid view to ensure it's symmetrical (balance)

Moving in with patterns

04. After you finish enhancing or modifying your shape (Flower), duplicate it in a new layer. Select the TRANSFORM tool and Resize it smaller, just nicely visible to create a pattern.

05. Hide the original shape (flower) layer. Please make sure the background is set to transparent (You can hide your background layer)

06. Highlight the resized shape, then go to EDIT > DEFINE PATTERNS.

Rename your pattern so that when you want to use it, it's easier to look.

07. Create a new layer, go to EDIT > FILL IN PATTERN. Your canvas will automatically fill with the repeated shape (flower) to create an interesting pattern.

Play around with other tool to make your layout more interesting but simple. Don't overdo.

You can also go to your background canvas layer and fill in with background color.

Result

You can then insert text or image. Here is the final product, my upcoming e-book cover. Enjoy!

I will add more digital artwork samples that utilize the pattern technique to create other form of arts. Bookmark and don't forget to RT this! Thank you and stay creative!

When A Support is Not A Support

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 10:43:00 +0000

Two months back, I was introduced to amazingly wonderful people from The Center for Creative Communication (CCC) in Shizuoka, Japan to join together with Bigbrosworkshop to this prestigious conference called the Asia Design Conference 2010, Shizuoka, Japan.

Si Juan, mayor of Shizuoka, Mr Zenkichi Kojima & me

Eric Chen, me, Larry & Jackson Tan in Malaysia showcase at CCC Japan

Me and Tomoa, Director of Creative Commons Japan

With +81 Magazine's director, Satoru Yamashita, me, Taka Nakanishi and her friend.

More photos of my Japan trip available here:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=317934&id=57937932003

Joining us is our neighbor, Jackson Tan and his team (the black angels) from Singapore, Eric Chen & Larry from Taiwan, Daisung Kim from South Korea, Laurence from iDN, Hong Kong, Gino Woo (Woogi, whom we met back in 2009's KL Design Week) from Shanghai. This conference would be complete entirely if we have participants from Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand so that we can discuss and gain tremendous input from each S.E. Asian countries.

What is interesting about this conference is that each country showcase their excellent portfolios from and discuss about their current situation that is happening in their creative industry.

Like Korea, the government does not support their creative industry to provide funds or support, not like Singapore or Malaysia. In Singapore however, everyone seems pampered by their government's privileges towards the support in arts & design industry, while we, in Malaysia still struggle to find that support. By support does not mean the government itself, but the people, Malaysians.

The biggest concern in Malaysia is that the people still have the 3rd world mentality and aren't able to support any art-related events or design conference due to their 'budget constrain' and whine about how expensive our events are, when both government and private institution offers free access to seminars and conference. The only problem is that we, Malaysian doesn't even bother or care to attend or they could never accept any feedback or critic be it negative or constructive because they only want to hear what they want to hear.

I remember hosting a Creative Commons event where I provide them free access to the event, provided food but no one bother to care about it and show no physical support.

One of our 'genius' excuse or reasons:

Students who can't afford to come to our event but have enough money to buy themselves an expensive gadget, expensive clothes
Professionals who can't spare time to even participate and some do provide statement that some tickets to local conference are too expensive, but they don't have problem paying RM300 for 3 jugs of beer instead of gaining great knowledge and education or simply ignorant to bother about our events.
Double-standard. Those who aren't well known are being discriminated especially by the media.
Malaysians are so particular and 'scared' to go out because it will waste their money by paying for their petrol and parking just to attend an event.
The advertising cannot work together with the architecture industry because each and everyone thinks that they are too important that none can brush their ego's off to do something noble.

All of these reason are unbelievably ridiculous because they refuse to support such initiative and became ignorant to proclaim there's no local event or government is not doing things to support our creative industry. There's even a question if it's a Malay organized event or Chinese organized event. Everything had to be color on top of everything.

Other countries like Indonesia would be so happy and privilege to have these kind of event lining up in their city, while we Malaysians can never be grateful enough to even acknowledge, appreciate us and always put a stop to any group who have the passion to host or initiate an event or a design showcase. Everyone start to close doors instead of opening doors to opportunity in collaboration and networking to increase a greater skill-trading between other sector in the creative industry. Everything is too monotonous.

What we should learn is to show our support instead of whining and complaining things. When we don't move forward, we can never catch up other countries to be on par in terms of state-of-the-art technology and innovation, such as Japan and other countries, even the closest one to us, which is Singapore.

It's a shame that we can't even get any politician to endorse or support us, while here in Shizuoka Japan, even the mayor would come to our show and show appreciation to support us.

This is what went wrong with Malaysians. The attitude of "Who cares! What's In It For Me?". Because when you don't care, it's how we can never see progression to our creative economy.

We have tons and tons of talented creative individuals who make Malaysian proud, from Jimmy Choo to Tan Eng Huat's wonderful talent in illustrating top comic studios from Marvel, DC, we have Milx, Aadi Salman, Mohammad Yazid, Heavymetal & Imaginex's wonderful creation of the Wars of The Worlds the Animation, Upin & Ipin or Saladin the 3D animated series, where most Malay muslim in this country is trying to go against this project that I would consider a noble effort made and it's to be proud of because it's 100% made by Chinese, Malays, Indians, Sabahan, Sarawakian and other Malaysians who then became a family along the process of this project, but others don't see it. They only see figures that overcloud their judgement.

It's a shame how we (or those who try to pitch this account before and lost to produce the animated series or did not get a job interview as animators would provoke others to hate) became so insecure and vulnerable to see Malaysian talent emerge and try to find any way to put us down to the ground and these negative conservative people shred our effort due to their temper-tantrum towards government and we creative people, became the victim.

My sister, Abby, just wrote an interesting article. I encourage you guys to read and to understand what's really going on with our country besides the lack of support that I have wrote in this blog.

'I'm Not Going Anywhere' - By Abby Latif: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/breakingviews/article/im-not-going-anywhere-abby-latif/

Creative Gathering: Behance 2nd Meetup

Another great session with members of Behance Malaysia. Check out our video ;-)

No Art, No Fun

Can't even begin to explain eversince I going my new workplace, I didn't have the chance to put my hands down to work on any artwork except for this.

Ok, later ;)
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Making An Art Worth Inspiring

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 17:23:00 +0000

I Am An Artist

About four months ago, i had express my intention via my Facebook and Twitter updates that I'm planning on leaving the creative world (cough, "retiring") to focus on my new interest in i) Law (Multimedia/Internet Act), ii) Museology and iii) Numismatics (sorry, not into that typical designer-move-to-photography). As mention in my previous blog post, I had been facing such a great roller-coaster ride by being in rock-bottom, from unstable business (unbelievable bad paymaster/fung fei kei cases), to battling my stomach Tumor that had affected my health, lost weight and to my paranoia of friends who gave remark on my appearance.

Three months later, I believe God had listen to my do'a and prayers and gave me with so much bless and love. Besides that I put on weight from 53kg to now, 58kg, I almost regular activities from my weekly 15km run, and wake up to the morning beautiful sunshine, either driving heading toward the Kuala Lumpur city or train ride, working as a blue-collar as a 'marketer' in a bank (Yep, probably comes as much of a surprise), I can never shred this artistic blood of mine away. Good Karma kicks in, like Paul Arden said, 'Don't look for next opportunity. The one you have in hand is the opportunity.' So I took on a new challenge facing a different working pattern and new working environment. Alhamdulillah, things are working just (fundamentally) fine. Work is work, stress is everywhere but you'll cope with it because you had been working for a decade in this industry, so whats to nag about?

So then came along another opportunity as I was chosen as Ambassador from my country by Behance Network, one of top creative networking circle that was awarded by numerous companies, publication offline and online, from "10 Most Creative Small Business Companies" by FAST COMP@NY, to Computer Arts UK, Mashable and others.

Introducing the 18 Behance Ambassador. Visit the rest of Behance Ambassador here

Our first Behance Malaysia Meetup @ Artista Cafe, Tropicana Mall, PJ

So for those who like to hang out with us, gain experience, learn new tips or advices, have creative discussion and hands-on creative collaboration projects, register a Behance profile and join our group here. Our next meet-up will be at Wondermilk Cafe, 13th November 2010.

‘When It Can't Be Done, Do It. If You Don't Do It, It Doesn't Exist ’, Paul Arden

Galeri Petronas and Petronas's Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra had took a giant leap in bringing new things around their table. I got a call from the wonderful people of Galeri Petronas inviting me to join an interesting project called the 'Painted Notes', a collaboration with the mighty talented and world-class musicians of Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. Of course, I couldn't say yes right away because I'm working, as I'm no longer running my own business. After I got approved by my awesome superiors and management of my agency, I start to mobilizing my ideas and plans to make it happen. I was introduce by this amazing Malaysian Conductor named Harish Shankar who now resides in Germany. I even manage to get great advice from my friend, Milx who I met a night before the performance.

For the first time in Malaysia, and for the first time by Fine Artist (Khairul Azmir a.k.a MeMe) and Digital Artist (me), we both set history to become the first to collaborate with musicians in this prestigious Dewan Philharmonik Petronas doing a live (real-time) artwork. I was honored, awe and bless. I'm so grateful to our Lord al-Mighty Allah. I thank Galeri Petronas and applaud them for giving us, Digital Artists platform to let Malaysians learn what is Digital Art and the processes of it's creation. Thanks to those who came, i couldn't be more happier and flattered by your warm support. Check out the video of our performance.

Land of The Rising Sun

Bigbrosworkshop had selected us to be a part in another prestigious exhibition, this time it's in Japan! Called INSIGHT, this exhibition promises everyone internationally how Malaysian talents really got what it takes to inspire with their artworks, including Kenji, Stephen Lau, Driva Lo, Luk, Chun Woei, Najib Tumiran (a.k.a Artech), Fariz Hanapiah, among others, and me!

I will be showcasing my work in two different city in Japan; Shizuoka & Tokyo, from 26th October til 4th. I haven't been travelling for so long. In my own expense, I felt it's the best opportunity to showcase my work in a different location with different culture and different creative view.

I just hope I have enough energy to divide myself with work and 'vacation'. I just look forward to experience Japanese culture including getting myself a copy of Naruto Shippuuden's Manga! Ittadakimas!

Thank you for reading, may you find your positive energy, have a great day and God bless.
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The Malaysian Designer Survival Kit (What You Need To Know)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:11:00 +0000

Warning: Heavy written content, it would sound narrow but it's a real fact that many need to aware when dealing with either the client or designer. This article is not suitable for lazy designers who don't like to read.

Intro

Getting a job here as a designer can be very easy, because the fact is that Malaysian designers are mostly UNDERPAID. While most think we, designers are glamorous, stylish at work, go out to party, only little aware the circumstances that creative people have to go through to make one single design work for them and sell to their clients. They work under constant pressure. Above all, many local designers are clueless about their future plans and direction. This is because they are blinded by fame or popularity, getting quantity of fans rather to keep improving their skills and gain as much experiences. Before we start the basic survival kit, let's see what's our current concern among designers, client and our country itself.

What others deceive designers and freelancers?

Produce Killer Portfolio.
Gain more clients. If you have Nike or Adidas in your list, you are already a mega-star designer but most don't know that these 'branded' clients are the worst paymasters.
Open studio so you'll be a cool design entrepreneur. But you forgot about the DBKL/MBSA regulation and rules about signage that would destroy your 'brand' with 'studio pengiklanan'
They teach you techniques & skills. Learn HTML5, etc but they don't teach you about copyright and Intellectual Property. (They don't tell you to watermark your work)
Most designers put awesome branded clients in their portfolio to impress people, BUT not all aware that these designers work under agencies. Again, it's agencies/companies portfolio and copyright, you are the designer and never pitch for the account in your own effort. The CEO, MD, the CD, Account Directors and managers are the ones who pitch and got the project for the company. Do not simply claim other people's credits that you don't get it under your own belt. You work with a dedicated creative team. So make it a teamwork-effort and credit them if you wish to showcase your portfolio.

What you should know about the designers here:

They have an amazing skills and techniques and they are able to adapt a lot of design style.
Asian designers are so talented but they also love to copycat other design style, hence no personal style or identity created. Everyone wants to be somebody they adore, not want to be for who they are.
Don't like to step out of their shell to learn other field (Graphic Designer to Flash or Print, DTP, 3D, Architecture, Photography, etc)
They make commercial work too personal, and once their design had been rejected, they whine like a baby. (Business IS business, attach NO emotional/personal feeling to work. Unless you work with clients who required emotional intelligence)
They do what they like, NOT what the client want (Remember the 'Missing Cat' Design Poster case?)
Our designers have a big problem in communication skills; none can understand a brief or misunderstood them.
Ignorant to understand the current economic situation in this small industry
Lavish spending on unnecessary possession or things that does not contribute to future investment
Too greedy in project ownership, NO teamwork or team effort (it's always 'I' instead of 'We'). An Art Director or CD usually like to take full credit instead of appreciating their team's effort. (I had experience this myself back in those days).
Mostly don't bother about design competition, creative gathering, design conference, exhibition and claim there's no support from the small industry. If they do attend one design conference, its a big deal for them. When a person won a competition, everyone would anticipate on post-mortem such as 'yeah, he should've not won the 1st prize because the artwork doesn't make sense', or 'that conference sucks'.
Usually the ones in the advertising would barely participate in creative conferences; because they are too busy with datelines or just being 'double standard' to mix around with the underdog (non-famous) designers/creative individuals.
Most Malaysian designers refuse to accept constructive criticism. They just like to hear what they want to hear. They love compliment and felt threaten and hostile when someone show them a weak spot.
Other countries recognize our talent more than the local due to less awareness & appreciation
Malaysian designers are mostly insecure about others achievement & success. They just couldn't get enough of what they posses. Then someone put one initiative, they just felt unsupportive and always look out for weaknesses.
Most of the designers here don't have an organized portfolio nor a website
Instead of learning, they spend too much time on social networking sites that does not improvise their skill
They bother nobody except for themselves & expect others to treat them as superstars (or taikor) = DIVA
Above all, most of them are underpaid

What you should know about Malaysian clients:

Huge gap of understanding art and design process (thinking). They thought designers use wizard or plugin to create work in seconds.
Most client who appointed vendor entrusted them to develop creative campaign, but because they, client, don't understand the nature of creative process, they are either left behind or not aware about it. Hence, vendors could take advantage of timeline and charges. There are clients who pay RM5k to produce amazing TVC but there's also a client who pays RM50,000 for a TVC but produce lousy-crappy ad even far worst than montages.
There are some amazing clients you can brag about, who understand design process and respect creativity and it's price tag. But you don't get that everyday.
Clients would thought design is easy to execute and cheap. They don't question if they spend RM5,000 to buy a Louis Vuitton handbag but question if designers quote them RM500 for a mock design.
Everyone thought design worth below RM1,000 and for a logo design, they think building their corporate identity or brand cost only RM100. That's why their brand are so cheap.
Malaysian clients have this attitude of 'no, i have some design sense, let me put some ideas into it' instead of trusting designers capability & ability to provide a solution.
They felt they needed to be too superior and vendors or people like us should worship them due to their megalomaniac attitude.
Most of creative campaign are injected with personal agenda; politics or just to impress boss to get promoted
They don't understand a lot of things, especially when it comes to technology and backend. They thought technology is too simple & too easy that they thought purchasing a dedicated hosting is cheap.
Most local client fear of putting an upfront payment to designers so that they can flee/run away from paying when their stakeholders cancelled the project.
It's all about 3rd party engagement. Usually the case of government contractors sub-con. to small/ SME companies to cut down the cost and profit to their own pocket.
The 'Ask For Quotation' clients. Usually in any large company/agency, finance department will require 3 quotation from vendors (us). Usually they just ask for quotation to be submitted to them, but the project had never been awarded. I encourage those who ask for quotation, we charge them RM100 because costing require research & time to do it. We're not Xerox copy machine who can produce according to your demand.
Malaysian clients love the idea of putting entertainment element in their work 'to sell'. They think young/teen people would love it but eventually, us, adult who have profession are the actual one who will buy their product.
Clients are mostly conscious about the regulation in Malaysia's censorship. It makes our creative process a hassle. Last time, Government agencies are forbid to wear anything that resemble to rival political parties, such as Green, Sky Blue, Red, or have imagery of rocket, rounded shape, moon and such.

What you don't know about what the Government and other groups is doing:

Government DO give out grants and funding for creative entrepreneurs. MOSTI and along other government agencies give out creative grant each year. But most Malaysian don't bother and ALWAYS blame government for not doing enough. Actually, it is us who are not doing enough to improve ourselves because we don't want to take responsible and always have someone to blame.
We, non-profit organisation or individual collective, design associations throw free conference, free seminars, invited top notch speakers from all over the world. We put 3 days creative conference for just RM300 but still people whine about it, but they don't whine if they spend RM300-500 for a bottle of liquor/whiskey/beer and then get drunk & barf on their way back home.
There's a lot of art bazaars, it takes two place to give the best example; Arts for Grabs at The Annexe Central Market, and Bazaar Seni in National Art Gallery. In fact, each year we have events like Urbanscapes. But Malaysian make ticket a big deal. They still can't afford to pay RM35 for a ticket. Everything want for free. We are not talking about students who can't afford. Professional who thinks the tickets are expensive are just cheapskate.
NGO host a lot of art events and call up volunteers. We see volunteers came all the way from Singapore, Australia, United Kingdom BUT Malaysian don't bother to offer their expertise to contribute in helping the orphanage or youth to give impact in that creative awareness.
Government host a lot of open-tenders and pitch but the first thing Malaysians would think of is assuming about the 'ah, tak dapat sebab kita bukan Melayu'. Apparently those non-bumi who tried get awarded with many projects. Please, it's so last decade to put racial-barriers and assuming things with such prejudice. If you don't trust your talent and capability, stop doing what you dream to do and do other things besides creative.
There's a lot of collective groups and associations formed up to help give designers and creative people platform to promote their works and other types.

(The list to be add more upon feedback and comments)

So what are the basic survival kit?

HAVE at least a diploma or a degree in selected field. If you don't, make sure you're a hard-work-self-taught-designer to impress them with your experience and let your work speak it's volume, not your appearance. If you only depend on PMR and SPM, you have small chance to work based on the employment rates, there are many jobless Malaysians own diploma and degree and if you don't have similar traits, you're unlikely to be hired. Remember, Malaysia standard working requirements is all about qualification. Unless you are lucky and have huge talent in producing creative works.
Learn as much knowledge and skills possible from the internet to gain wide technique, skills and knowledge. Visit youtube.com, Photoshop tutorials, etc.
Make sure you get headhunted if you're good. If you're not good, improve your skills and portfolio to get recognise. Hanging out with famous designers does not secure your establishment.
Learn your rights. Most company don't cover your insurance because they want to run away from it, especially EPF and income tax responsibilities. Learn about Employers Act 1955
Forecast at least a 5-year career milestone on how you want to achieve yourself. Always have long term goals.
Make sure your insurance is covered in a company so that if any health problem occurs, you have an insurance.
Attend creative functions and events to keep yourself notable and mix around to trade experiences
Never, ever go to design forum (those phpBB). 99% Design forum have full negative influence that allows you to be insecure and prejudice for your environment. I seen so many designers from forum who could not settle for less. These people are kids and like to inject 'weird' idea to provoke people to hate due to career failure or fail to gain fame or profit-making.
Seek career advices from experience people, not from certain lecturers* or your colleague.
Have pride in your work: respect your ability to create wonders, even if you felt inferior. Be motivated and don't question or doubt yourself. When you love yourself and love your work, people will also love you.
Trust your instinct and be firm in your decision. Don't get influence easily by others when it comes to decision-making.

How to get a free online portfolio?

Register at http://www.behance.net . Check out http://be.net/muidlatif (see how short this URL was given!) to see how you can sort out your portfolio, get constructive feedback and study on the statistic of people's view to their favourite style of work that you had published online. From there, you will learn and continue develop other greater style for a greater creative impact.

Hope this article helps and profit your knowledge for positivity.

* Notice: (updated 24/1/2017), certain lecturers means they have no industrial background and experiences but merely academic studies based on survey conducted and does not perform actual task as a designer.

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Kre8tivity in Worldcup 2010: Typeface designs for #Ger #Uru

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 20:11:00 +0000

The past two months had been one of my most memorable event, the FIFA Worldcup. Germany, Spain & Uruguay are my best favorite team and each match they play was epical and very entertaining.

As a designer, I intrigued and fascinated by the creativity in worldcup; Jersey design and typeface! One of my favorite typeface design is by Paul Barnes, who created Crepello & Olembe for Puma Pace, while awesome Brazilian Designer, Yomar Augusto with such powerful & solid font called 'Unity' for Adidas.

For those who like to checkout these historical typeface Guru: Paul Barnes and Yomar Augusto.

The featured typeface 'Unity' in this article is copyright to Yomar Augusto & Adidas.

If you're interested in purchasing your favorite team's jersey, check out http://www.uksoccershop.com